Selangor PAS Youth has urged the government to adopt stricter measures beyond fines to tackle the growing issue of drunk driving, including tighter control over alcohol sales.
Its deputy chief, Aubidullah Fahim Ibrahim, said while the movement supports proposed amendments to Section 44 of the Road Transport Act 1987, the introduction of mandatory compensation for victims’ families alone is insufficient.
He argued that financial penalties do not reflect the severity of lives lost due to drivers operating under the influence of alcohol, stressing that such punishments fail to serve as a strong deterrent.
“The amendments are not a complete solution. Fines alone are not enough to create awareness or match the consequences of losing innocent lives,” he said in a statement on Friday.
Aubidullah also raised concerns over what he described as the growing normalisation of alcohol culture, which he said is increasingly promoted at public and community events.
He pointed to a previous incident involving a brewery sponsoring a school event in Selangor, claiming it highlighted a broader failure to uphold societal values.
“This should not be seen as an isolated issue, but rather a reflection of a wider lapse in maintaining moral boundaries within society,” he added.
In response, Selangor PAS Youth called on authorities, particularly at the state level, to tighten regulations on alcohol sales and promotion, especially in sensitive areas such as near schools and educational institutions.
He further suggested that alcohol sales should be regulated as strictly as tobacco products, citing its role in contributing to social issues and road-related tragedies.
Aubidullah stressed that tougher laws alone would not be effective if easy access to alcohol remains unaddressed, urging authorities to take more decisive action to safeguard public safety.
He also warned against any attempts by influential figures or politicians to normalise alcohol consumption, calling for firm measures to protect society’s well-being and future.
